Hummingbird Tetra (Trochilocharax ornatus) Care Guide
An extremely rare and delicate nano tetra from South American blackwater streams. Nearly transparent with scattered dark spots and a faint iridescence, males develop extended dorsal and anal fin rays.…
Overview
Trochilocharax ornatus is a species in the family Characidae. An extremely rare and delicate nano tetra from South American blackwater streams. Nearly transparent with scattered dark spots and a faint iridescence, males develop extended dorsal and anal fin rays. One of the world's smallest fish, it demands pristine water conditions, very soft acidic water, and live or finely crushed foods. A true challenge for experienced nano enthusiasts.
Taxonomy
- Family: Characidae
- Genus: Trochilocharax
- Scientific name: Trochilocharax ornatus
- Other names: Trochilocharax ornatus
- Origin: South America
Habitat
Native to the upper Amazon basin of Peru. Inhabits soft, acidic, slow-moving forest streams. A diminutive, translucent characin named for its hovering swimming style; the species was described to science only in 2006.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 20 L
- Temperature: 23-27 °C
- pH: 3.5-5.5
- GH: 0-3 °dGH
- Water flow: low
- Adult size: 1.5-2 cm
- Lifespan: 1-3 years
- Recommended group size: ≥ 8
- Difficulty: advanced
Diet
Classified as omnivore. Recommended feeding frequency: 2-3x daily. In captivity, offer a varied diet appropriate to the species — quality prepared foods supplemented with frozen or live items of suitable size.
Compatibility
- Temperament: peaceful
- Swimming level: middle
- Compatible tank mates: Other Boraras species, Pygmy Corydoras, Small shrimp
- Avoid with: Almost all other fish, Strong water flow, Hard water species
Breeding
- Breeding strategy: egg-scatterer
- Breeding difficulty: advanced